The formation of soil is a very long term process. Nearly 1.000 years for the formation of soil. Soil is formed from the weathering of rocks and minerals. The surface rocks break down into smaller pieces through the process of weathering and mix with the organic matter, thus, forming the soil.
Three Main Types of Soil
There are mainly three types of soil. There are sand, silt and clay. Almost every soil is a combination of the three. The texture of the soil depends upon the amount of each one present in that particular place.
What is Soil Profile?
The horizontal cross section of different layers of soil is known as Soil Profile. Soil Profile look different in different areas of the world. They are affected by climate and other things.
What Matters is the Soil Composed of?
Soil is a mixture of different things, like rocks, minerals and dead decaying plants and animals. Soil can be very different from one place to another, but in general, it consists of organic and inorganic materials, water and air. The inorganic materials are the rocks that has been broken down into smaller peaces, while on the other hand, the organic material consists of decaying living matter. This could be the dead plants and animals.
How is Soil Erosion Caused?
Soil erosion is caused by wind and rain. This can change landscape by, wearing down mountains, creating valleys, making rivers appear and disappear. It is a slow and gradual process that may take thousands or even millions of years.
How Do Today’s Farmers Try to Reduce the Amount of Soil Erosion?
Today’s farmers try to farm in such a way that it reduces the amount of soil erosion and soil loss. They may plant cover crops or use a no-till method of farming. Soil is an important resource that we all must protest.
How Do the Animals Help in the Development of Soil?
When the animals die, their bodies mix with the soil and make it rich in nutrients. Thus, the animals help in the development of soil.